Planning Your Epic 2-Week National Park Road Trip: A Detailed Map & Itinerary
Embarking on a two-week national park road trip is an adventure of a lifetime! The sheer scale of these natural wonders demands careful planning. This guide will help you craft an unforgettable journey, providing a sample itinerary and addressing common questions to ensure a smooth and spectacular trip. Remember to tailor this to your interests and preferred driving style – some routes involve significant driving days.
Choosing Your Parks: The key to a successful trip is selecting parks that are geographically close to minimize driving time. Consider focusing on a specific region, like the Southwest (Utah, Arizona, Nevada), the Rockies (Colorado, Wyoming), or the Pacific Northwest (Washington, Oregon, California).
Sample 2-Week Southwest Itinerary (Adjustable to your preferences):
This itinerary prioritizes Utah and Arizona's "Mighty 5" national parks, allowing for a balance of driving and exploration.
Week 1:
- Day 1-3: Zion National Park: Hike the iconic Angels Landing (permit required) or The Narrows. Explore Emerald Pools and enjoy the scenic shuttle system.
- Day 4-5: Bryce Canyon National Park: Witness the breathtaking hoodoos at sunrise and sunset. Hike the Navajo Loop and Queen's Garden Trail, or explore the rim trail.
- Day 6-7: Capitol Reef National Park: Hike to Hickman Bridge, explore the Fruita orchards, and enjoy the scenic drive through the Waterpocket Fold.
Week 2:
- Day 8-9: Arches National Park: Hike to Delicate Arch for iconic views, explore Landscape Arch, and enjoy the many shorter trails.
- Day 10-11: Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky District): Visit Mesa Arch for sunrise, hike to Grand View Point, and explore White Rim Road (high-clearance vehicle required).
- Day 12-14: Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim): Hike a portion of the Bright Angel Trail, enjoy sunset views from Mather Point, and explore the South Rim's many viewpoints.
Essential Considerations for your 2-Week National Park Road Trip Map:
What National Parks are best for a 2-week road trip?
The best parks for a two-week road trip depend on your preferences and location. The Southwest (Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Arches, Canyonlands, Grand Canyon) offers a stunning concentration of parks, but the Rockies (Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Rocky Mountain) are equally spectacular. California's national parks (Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon, Death Valley) are also fantastic options, but require more driving time between them.
What is the best route for a 2-week national park road trip?
The optimal route hinges on your chosen parks. Plan your route using online mapping tools, considering driving distances and potential road closures. Prioritize scenic byways whenever possible.
What are some good road trip apps for planning a national park trip?
Several apps can enhance your road trip planning:
- Roadtrippers: Helps plan routes, find attractions, and discover nearby restaurants and accommodations.
- AllTrails: Provides detailed information on hiking trails, including difficulty levels and reviews.
- Gaia GPS: Offers offline maps and navigation for hiking and exploring.
- National Park Service app: Provides park-specific information, maps, and alerts.
How much will a 2-week national park road trip cost?
The cost depends on your travel style, but expect expenses for:
- Park entrance fees: Vary by park. Consider an "America the Beautiful" pass for significant savings if visiting multiple parks.
- Gas: Factor in the significant driving distances.
- Accommodation: Camping is the most budget-friendly option, followed by motels and hotels.
- Food: Pack snacks and meals to save money, but allow for restaurant meals occasionally.
- Activities: Entrance fees for activities like ranger programs or guided tours.
What should I pack for a 2-week national park road trip?
Pack layers of clothing for varying weather conditions, sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, a first-aid kit, and any necessary medications. Don't forget your camera and binoculars!
Remember to book accommodations and obtain any necessary permits in advance, especially during peak season. With careful planning and a spirit of adventure, your two-week national park road trip will be an unforgettable experience.
